Michael Magill, Creative Director of RSP, has been a driving force behind the studio’s impressive growth over the past year. His leadership, vision, and passion for design have not only elevated the firm’s creative output but also expanded its reach, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where RSP has secured several prestigious projects in 2024 alone. From large-scale mixed-use developments to high-end hospitality projects, RSP is now firmly established as a key player in the region’s evolving construction industry.

With over 20 years of experience, Michael has a talent for pushing creative boundaries while keeping a sharp focus on client needs and project goals. This blend of artistic innovation and practical expertise has made him a respected figure within the studio and across the broader architecture community.

One of Michael’s standout achievements in 2023, was leading the design of the Lagerfeld Residential Development, a luxury project that has achieved significant attention. He took the design ethos of Karl Lagerfeld and blended it with a distinctly local flavour, incorporating Dubai’s modern essence into Lagerfeld’s sophisticated design philosophy. Michael’s approach balanced natural light, ergonomic principles, and sustainable materials, all aimed at enhancing the well-being of residents. The result was a high-end living experience that went well beyond client expectations.

NOBU HOTEL & BRANDED RESIDENCES

Michael worked closely with Taraf Properties and the Lagerfeld team, leading workshops in both Dubai and Paris to ensure that every aspect of the design- from the master plan to the interior finishes- honored Lagerfeld’s legacy. This wasn’t just another luxury development, it was a tribute to Karl’s unique style and vision. By the time the project launched in March 2024, both Taraf and the Lagerfeld team were extremely pleased with the outcome which has since set a new standard for high-end residential design in the region.

In the past year, Aldar Properties launched the Nobu Hotel & Branded Residences on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Michael led the design on this project, as one of RSP’s major hospitality projects seamlessly integrating Japanese influences that reflect the renowned international Nobu’s distinctive essence. The design draws heavily on minimalism, a hallmark of Japanese DESIGN MIDDLE EAST | OCTOBER 2024 CREATIVE DIRECTOR/RSP 06 M I C H A E L MAGILL CREATIVE POWERLIST BROUGHT TO YOU BY DESIGN MIDDLE EAST | OCTOBER 2024 29 architecture, while also incorporating subtle local influences to create a unique lifestyle experience.

Another project that was successfully launched this year which was led by Michael is the high-end residences with Dubai Holding called Elara Residences in Madinat Jumeirah Living. The development consists of mid-rise buildings with views of the iconic Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah.

THE LAGERFELD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT, A HIGH-PROFILE LUXURY PROJECT, SEAMLESSLY MERGES KARL LAGERFELD’S DESIGN ETHOS WITH A DISTINCTIVE LOCAL TOUCH. BY INTEGRATING DUBAI’S MODERN ESSENCE, IT ENHANCES LAGERFELD’S SOPHISTICATED STYLE WITH A REGIONAL FLAIR

Beyond Dubai, Michael has played a pivotal role in RSP’s expansion into Saudi Arabia, where the firm has seen a surge in winning high-profile projects. Over the past year, RSP has become a trusted partner for some of the Kingdom’s most prominent clients, including PIF entities like Qiddiya, Diriyah Gate, ROSHN, and SEVEN. These large-scale mixed-use developments and prestigious hospitality projects have cemented RSP’s status as a leading design firm in the region.

Michael’s ability to adapt to the unique demands of each project has earned him praise from clients. Whether he’s designing a luxury villa in Dubai or overseeing a large-scale mixed-use development in Saudi Arabia, Michael brings the same level of care, creativity, and attention to detail. His expertise in blending contemporary design with cultural context has been a key factor in RSP’s success in the region, where projects often require a delicate balance between modernity and tradition.

In addition to the firm’s ongoing projects, Michael has also been instrumental in RSP’s internal growth. In June 2024, RSP completed its move to a new office in Downtown Dubai, a project that Michael personally oversaw. The new office, which now has double the capacity of the previous space, reflects RSP’s evolving brand and future ambitions. With its creative layout, vibrant breakout areas, and collaborative workspaces, the new studio is a testament to Michael’s vision for a workplace that fosters both productivity and creativity. Looking ahead, it’s clear that Michael’s leadership will continue to shape RSP’s trajectory. As the firm takes on even more ambitious projects in Saudi Arabia and beyond, Michael’s ability to balance creativity with strategic thinking will be crucial in maintaining RSP’s standing as a leader in the architecture world.

ELARA RESIDENCES MADINAT JUMEIRAH